Why Full Spectrum CBD Oil?
Virtually everyone has heard of CBD (Cannabidiol) and know that it comes from the Hemp (Cannabis Sativa) plant. However, far fewer know that it is only one of literally hundreds of chemical compounds associated with this amazing plant. Even CBD and THC are only 2 of over 100 known cannabinoids, each with its own distinct properties, and the ways in which they can all interact with the human mind and body are nothing short of extraordinary.
According to popular folklore, CBD and THC have a kind of good guy – bad guy relationship. However, once you start to dig a little deeper you will soon discover that their interactions are much more complex than this.
The body’s Endocannabinoid System (ECS) is where things really start to buzz.
Consisting of a network of receptors and chemicals, it works to maintain internal harmony, sending adjustment signals to key internal organs and systems. In this way it can regulate key functions such as mood, appetite, sleep, pain, and immune response.
Messages are sent using the body’s own endocannabinoids, similar in chemical composition to the cannabinoids found in hemp. These messengers are released by your body whenever there is a need for adjustment of things such as stress or pain levels. When functioning normally your ECS is largely responsible for the body’s overall health and well-being.
Because of their similarity to endocannabinoids, compounds such as THC and CBD can also readily interact with the ECS, producing various effects on your body.
As the primary psychoactive component, THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) interacts with receptors throughout the brain and nervous system, influencing mood, pain perception, and other functions. Beyond THC’s well-known ability to create a sense of euphoria, it has demonstrated significant medical benefits, such as alleviating chronic pain, reducing nausea, and stimulating appetite.
CBD, on the other hand, interacts with other parts of the brain and is seen as a more appropriate compound for certain conditions and symptoms. Non-psychoactive as it is, many medical cannabis patients are vocal champions for its positive effects that help, amongst other things, to soothe their pain.
Even the relatively small amounts of THC in Full Spectrum CBD can, thanks to the Entourage Effect, (compounds working better together than apart), enhance its other properties and provide a more profound impact on the body.
Any CBD product featuring the complete range of compounds extracted from hemp, including terpenes, essential oils and (up to 0.3%) THC – is classed as Full Spectrum.
Broad Spectrum contains a similar chemical mix, but with no more than a trace amount of THC, thus somewhat diminishing its overall effects.
In both products the blend of all extracted compounds is vital to their overall effectiveness.
CBD Isolate, on the other hand is, as it sounds, pure CBD with nothing else, and is typically derived from hemp plants, with a very low THC content. When it comes to the treatment of medical conditions it is, by itself, comparatively ineffective.
As the reputation of Full Spectrum CBD grows, patients are turning to it to support a wide variety of issues, including inflammation, chronic pain, anxiety, depression and neurological disorders (such as Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s and Huntington’s disease).
There is also a rapidly growing body of evidence as to the effectiveness of topically applied CBD salves for the treatment of a myriad of skin and other conditions.
CBD is also known for its antibacterial, antioxidant, anti-fungal, anti-itching and wound healing qualities. CBD-based shampoos have been seen to help patients with scalp psoriasis and seborrheic dermatitis.
Full Spectrum CBD is the CBD of choice for our range of human Bee Well products. However, our new range of pet products, currently under development, will feature Broad Spectrum CBD, as THC, even in relatively insignificant amounts, can prove to be toxic to some dogs and cats.